This morning I scheduled a meeting with a young couple in from Washington, D.C….

 

I have a great studio, but for convenience (both theirs and mine) we met at a bookstore close to where they were taking pre-Cana.

 

Bookstores and Mark should be kept as far apart as possible….

 

I have a collection of books on wedding planning, traditions, customs, design …you name it, which now rivals my collection of cookbooks (sorry, bad habit from a former life).

 

This morning’s investment was Colin Cowie’s Extraordinary Weddings…

 

 

 

I say investment, because it is…starting with its pink suede cover and its sheer size….you’re not finding this on the discounted rack…

 

 

I stand in admiration of Colin Cowie… he’s what I want to be when I grow up!

 

I’ve always admired his work from afar, and was really excited to attend a Modern bride event in New York this year where he was speaking…

 

The presentation broadened my horizons, took the outside the box thinking I already had and took it to outside ‘EVERYTHING’ – the ideas were so far out of my box, yet not totally intimidating…it really broadened my design scope.

 

I was really excited that his suggestion to have a questionnaire for clients to learn as much as possible about their likes, dislikes, hobbies, favorite food, favorite colors…anything that will assist you in personalizing their day….

 

It’s something I have done from day one!

 

My only minor disappointment that day was in how quickly he was whisked away into an elevator and out of the event…

 

Truth be told, there would have been a ton of crazed brides-to-be, and totally INSANE event professionals who would have stormed him had he stayed.

 

OK, THE BOOK…. The book is INSANE…. Amazing photographs, some of the most beautiful weddings…I can only dream…

 

BUT, the best part is the information revealed… it shares details and specifics of every wedding… menus, floor plans and tips…it shows great focal points and details that taken on their own…away from this huge event…could easily be incorporated into any wedding …

 

Color blocking, use of candle light, details for personalizing your day, comfort of your guests, incorporating family traditions and heritage into building a subtle theme…

 

All concepts within reach of the typical couple…

 

Definitely a GREAT INVESTMENT at any cost.

 

I can’t wait to read more…

 

Thanks Colin!